Health reports: Why coffee, organic eggplant and more can help your body

Thursday

Oct 21, 2010 at 12:01 AMOct 21, 2010 at 9:22 PM

Health studies and more.

Danielle Braff

Drink to your health

New studies show that drinking one cup of coffee daily lowers your risk of early death by 37 percent. Drink two, and you’ll reduce your risk of death from heart disease by 25 percent. Three cups will lower your risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia by 65 percent, and if you can drink four, you’ll be 56 percent less likely to develop type 2 diabetes.

Hearing loss

One out of every six people experiences hearing loss. The worst part: It’s a result of everyday noise, such as loud restaurants, sports games and even the sound of a movie theater, according to the National Institutes of Health. Lower your risk by wearing ear plugs whenever you’re in a noisy environment.

Lose the weight and fight the flu

It’s flu season again, which means it’s time to lose some weight. University of North Carolina researchers studying mice’s reaction to the flu found that all the skinny ones survived, but 25 percent of the heavier ones died. The scientists believe the extra pounds may limit immune-cell memory, making it harder to fight the flu.

Sun attack

You may think you’re free from the sun’s rays now that they’re hiding behind cold clouds. But a recent study by Saint Louis University scientists finds that UVA rays can seep through your car window and cause skin cancer. In fact, the study finds that 56 percent of the head and neck cancers in men were on their left side – which is the driver’s side. So before driving, make sure to apply sunscreen.

Keep the table clear

Want to lose a few pounds? Try moving the serving dishes away from your dinner table. A recent study from Cornell University found that when people serve themselves from the counter or the stove — instead of from the table — they eat up to 35 percent less. The researchers believe that when you have to get up from the table, you’re more likely to think about whether you’re still hungry.

Hop on the machine

If you’re looking for a great workout, look no further than the elliptical machine. It’s easier on your knees than running, and a new study from University of Nebraska researchers found that it burns as many calories as running on the treadmill at the same level of intensity.

Go organic

Here’s another reason you may want to invest in organic food: Spanish researchers found that organic eggplants have 30 percent more disease-fighting antioxidants than those that have pesticides. Add eggplants to the list of kiwis and potatoes that are more nutritious organic than not.